Sandy Springs Crier - January 11, 2024

Police arrest Atlanta man for illegal dumping at hotel ► PAGE 2

J a n u a r y 1 1 , 2 0 2 4 | A p p e n M e d i a . c o m | A n A p p e n M e d i a G r o u p P u b l i c a t i o n | 5 0 ¢ | Vo l u m e 3 , N o . 2

Sandy Springs brewery to reopen this week

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

APPEN MEDIA FILE PHOTO

Pontoon Brewing at 8601 Dunwoody Place in Sandy Springs is reopening Jan. 10. The brewery has been closed since October following the loss of its previous distribution partner.

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Pontoon Brewing is set to reopen its Sandy Springs taproom Jan. 10 after two months of closure.

In a Dec. 31 Instagram post, the company said it would permanently close its Tucker location to focus on its original operation at 8601 Dunwoody Place in Sandy Springs with more limited and selective distribution.

In October, Pontoon co-founders Sean O’Keefe and Marcus Powers announced the brewery was temporarily closing because of distribution troubles. “… Due to one of our main distribution partners not paying us for our product, we are faced with a dire situation and are forced to temporarily close our doors while we find a new partner or buyer for the business,” O’Keefe and Powers said in a joint statement. “Our employees mean the world to us and it’s not fair to have them work for us while we are not certain we will be able to pay them.”

Both locations closed Oct. 28 with no definitive word on future plans.

Pontoon Brewing opened in 2018, marking Sandy Springs’ first brewery.

City Springs schedules MLK cultural festival Springs deck is complimentary.

This year, Martin Luther King Jr. Day takes place on his actual birthdate, Jan. 15. The holiday is every year on the third Monday in January.

Last year was the first time since 2020 the city was able to hold the event in person, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

There are six activities planned, each centering on themes exemplified

by King’s work during the Civil Rights

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rights, segregation, and equality.

• EQUALITY: Listen to readings of picture books such as “My Brother Martin,” by Christine King Farris.

• FREEDOM: Watch a movie screening of the Emmy-nominated film, “Our Friend, Martin.”

“Our Friend, Martin” is an animated children’s educational film about King

See FESTIVAL, Page 6

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Movement: • DREAM: Listen to King’s “I Have a Dream” speech and create your own “Dream Cloud” craft.

• JUSTICE: Decorate a bookmark with a quote from Dr. King, “The time is always right to do what is right.”

• LOVE: Use crayons to trace hands, identifying the similarities we all share.

• LIBERTY: Complete a wordsearch and learn about terms such as civil

APPE

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Sandy Springs’ Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Art & Film Celebration kicks off at 1 p.m. Jan. 15 in the Studio Theatre at 1 Galambos Way. The family-friendly event will feature interactive art projects and a film designed to celebrate, educate and share the teachings of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. The event is free and open to the community, and parking in the City

PUBLIC SAFETY

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COMPARING POLICE TRANSPARENCY 770-442-3278 AppenMedia.com

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Judged a newspaper of General Excellence 2023

Each week Appen Media requests police incident reports to inform residents about the safety of their community. Sandy Springs continues to withhold what it calls the “narrative reports.” It is the only city Appen Media covers that follows this practice, which goes against guidance from the Attorney General, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Georgia Sheriff’s Association, Prosecuting

Attorneys’ Council of Georgia and Georgia Press Association.

Above at left is a report which includes one sentence, asserting that a Sandy Springs Police officer responded to a car blocking traffic.

The event in question resulted in an arrest citing marijuana, cocaine and a handgun.

Above is a report from the Johns Creek Police Department, describing

another traffic stop.

Appen Media contends these full length reports exist for most Sandy Springs incidents and that the city is withholding them in violation of Georgia’s Open Records Act. Appen Media will continue pursuing the release of more detailed documents that belong to the public in order to inform residents how safe – or unsafe – their city is.

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Police withhold details of illegal dumping

By PATRICK FOX pat@appenmedia.com SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — An 55-yearold Atlanta man was arrested on felony hazardous or commercial dumping and misdemeanor obstruction charges Dec. 31 at Extended Stay America.

Sandy Springs police arrested Melvin Head, 55, and towed away an F-650 truck from the scene.

The hotel is at 905 Crestline Parkway, within a quarter mile of Costco Wholesale and the Parc at Perimeter Apartments. It

is 100 feet from Peppertree Lake within the Dunwoody Springs Community Association.

The initial incident report, provided by the Sandy Springs Police Department, states: “On December 31, 2023, I was dispatched to the Extended Stay America (905 Crestline Pkwy Sandy Springs, Ga 30328) in response to an illegal dumping in progress.”

The arrest report provided by Sandy Springs cites two misdemeanor charges: willful obstruction of law enforcement and littering.

But the jail commitment form provided through Fulton County Courts lists a felony indictment of “Dumping Biomedical Or Hazardous Waste Or Substance Or Dumping For Commercial Purpose.”

Sandy Springs police did not respond to requests for further details about any hazardous substance and whether it presented any danger to the surrounding areas.

Head was booked into Fulton jail Dec. 31 and released Jan. 2 on unsecured judicial release – a condition that does not require a money or property bond.

NEWS

AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs | Sandy Springs Crier | January 11, 2024 | 3

Atlanta, Sandy Springs sign PATH400 construction pact

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Construction to extend the PATH400 multi-use trail is scheduled to begin this year, after the Sandy Springs City Council approved two agreements with Atlanta Jan. 2.

The extension of the multi-use trail, which runs from Loridans Drive in Atlanta to Johnson Ferry Road in Sandy Springs, requires cooperation from both cities to complete.

As construction at Ga. 400 and I-285 wraps up, work to extend the existing 5.1mile path to the interchange can begin.

The path will primarily be built within the Georgia Department of Transportations right-of-way along Ga. 400, which has served as a staging ground for equipment used for the upgraded interchange.

The extension will connect Sandy Springs residents to Buckhead and will also provide access to proposed paths on Peachtree Dunwoody Road and Mount Vernon Highway.

Sandy Springs and Fulton County voters approved the PATH400 project in the Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax referendums passed in 2016 and renewed in 2021, according to the city’s website.

At the Jan. 2 meeting, the Sandy Springs City Council first approved an amendment to the original May 2019 agreement with Atlanta for the design of the PATH400 multi-use trail.

The agreement between the cities hit a snag when a Sandy Springs contractor requested additional funds for final design in January 2023.

According to the project framework agreement, the PATH400 extension requires 20 percent of local funding from Atlanta and Sandy Springs to match the 80 percent of federal funding from the Georgia Department of Transportation.

While GDOT plays a large role in the project, engineers with Heath & Lineback

HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA

Public Works Director Marty Martin discusses the safety action plan for the Safe Roads and Streets for All project at the Jan. 2 City Council meeting. The study is expected to be complete in 15 months. also provide design and construction services for the Sandy Springs portion of the PATH400 extension.

The amendment calls for Atlanta to reimburse Sandy Springs $17,457.28 for additional cost sharing related to preliminary engineering.

The Atlanta City Council approved the amendment in November 2023.

“After completion of the preliminary engineering, the City of Atlanta will take on the responsibility for constructing their portion of the trail,” city staff said in a document.

According to a 2019 PATH400 trailextension presentation to Sandy Springs residents, the total cost of the project is about $23.3 million.

Sandy Springs’ portion is about $19.2 million, requiring a 20 percent local match of about $3.8 million.

The project has some complications.

The second agreement approved Jan. 2 is related to cost-sharing for construction of the PATH400 extension.

Each city will construct the portion of the project within its city limits; however, the city limits of Atlanta and Sandy Springs meet at Nancy Creek Bridge on Ga. 400.

The construction cost of the entire bridge for the PATH400 trail-extension project will be included in the Sandy Springs portion.

The estimated cost for the portion of the bridge located within Atlanta is just under $2 million.

Atlanta will reimburse Sandy Springs for the 20 percent local match for construction of the bridge, totaling about $393,000 and not to exceed $400,000.

The federal share of funding, about $1.5 million, will be reimbursed by GDOT through the project framework agreement.

In other business at the Jan. 2 meeting, the City Council approved a contract with Gresham Smith to develop a safety action plan through the Safe Roads and Streets for All program. The city’s contribution is $90,000.

The U.S. Department of Transportation

GOOGLE MAPS

A map shows the approved extension of the PATH400 multi-use trail (pink dotted line), which runs from Loridans Drive in Atlanta to Johnson Ferry Road in Sandy Springs. Construction of the extension is expected to begin this year. awarded a $360,000 grant to the city to complete the study.

Sandy Springs joins other Metro Atlanta cities in developing a safety action plan to reduce fatal or serious-injury crashes.

State official reports ‘swatting’ hours after false Capitol threat

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — Georgia Secretary of State Chief Operating Officer Gabriel Sterling said his family was targeted by a phony 911 call Jan. 3, only hours after a bomb threat hoax at the State Capitol.

The alleged incident follows numerous reports nationwide of “swatting,” the practice of summoning authorities to a person’s home with false reports of a crime.

“My family has now joined the ranks of those who have had their home ‘swatted,’” Sterling posted on X around 7 p.m. Jan. 3.

“We should all refuse to allow bomb threats and swatting to be the new normal. 911 got a call saying a drug deal gone bad, resulted in shooting, at our home. Everyone is OK. But this is wrong.”

Sandy Springs Police Department did not provide the initial incident report, which is a public record. A spokesman for the department provided the case number for the incident and said he had nothing further to add. Nor did the department confirm any details.

But, Police Public Information Officer Sgt. Leon Millholland said there was no SWAT involvement.

Sterling’s post follows similar reports of swatting from elected officials nationwide.

U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s exhusband Perry Greene, a Milton resident, reported someone called police to his residence Dec. 27 under false claims of an armed suspect.

Marjorie Taylor Greene reported multiple swatting calls at the end of December.

Around 8:30 a.m. Jan. 3, Sterling also posted about the bomb threat at the Capitol, which caused a delayed opening.

The Georgia Department of Public Safety confirmed the Capitol hoax threat originated from an email that was sent to an

employee.

“A search was conducted, and an allclear was given,” Public Information Officer Courtney Floyd wrote in an email to Appen Media. “It is our understanding that this was sent to multiple states.”

Floyd said the all-clear was given at 8:57 a.m.

The Associated Press reported other states, including Connecticut, Montana, Mississippi, Minnesota, Kentucky, Michigan, Maine and Hawaii, saw similar threats at state offices.

Attempts to reach Sterling for comment were unsuccessful.

COMMUNITY

4 | January 11, 2024 | Sandy Springs Crier | AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs

Visit Our Brand New Showroom FREE DESIGN CONSULTATIONS

Appen Media schedules public ‘Listening Tour’ ALPHARETTA, Ga. — Appen Media’s staff reporters are going on tour for the next several months, and they will be all ears to the public at each stop.

The Listening Tour will allow the community a forum to provide suggestions to the news team on coverage — whether they be stories you wish to see more of, or if there are specific issues you wish to be

addressed.

Each of Appen Media’s seven coverage areas will be on the schedule.

The first stop is at Dunwoody Tavern Thursday, Jan. 18. The openhouse style event will begin at 4 p.m. and last around an hour.

So, come have a drink, a quick bite, and let’s talk local news.

Listening Tour schedule 1/18 - Dunwoody Tavern, Dunwoody 2/15 - From the Earth Brewing Company, Roswell 3/21 - Sugo, Johns Creek 5/16 - Six Bridges Brewing, Milton

Kitchen & Bath Remodeling Re-imagined

Additional dates and locations are forthcoming. Listening Tour events are come-and-go, but if you would like to RSVP for planning purposes, you can do so at appenmedia.com/join.

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AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs | Sandy Springs Crier | January 11, 2024 | 5

Jewish community fills shoes on Christmas

By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com DUNWOODY, Ga. — While many Americans gather with their families on Christmas Day, some are not fortunate enough to have the holiday off from work.

While most community members haven’t the training to be a medical doctor or police officer, some are able to fill in for non-medical healthcare workers.

In the spirit of the season, members of B’nai B’rith International and the Jewish community replaced Christian workers in hospitals, assisted-living facilities and nursing homes, allowing them to spend the day with their families.

On Christmas Day 2023, more than 200 members of the Metro Atlanta Jewish community volunteered at Historic Roswell Place; William Breman Jewish Home in Atlanta; Celebration Village Forsyth; Berman Commons in Dunwoody; Dunwoody Place in Atlanta; Somerby of Sandy Springs; and the Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Decatur.

The Achim and Gate City Lodge, the local chapter of B’nai B’rith International, organizes the annual event.

German Jews immigrating to New York City founded B’nai B’rith in 1843.

Achim and Gate City, established in 1870, is one of the oldest B’nai B’rith lodges in the country.

Gary Jackson, a member of the Achim and Gate City Lodge of B’nai

From left, Ian Hurewitz, Harry Lutz, Sherri Adair and Rae Sirott volunteer at Dunwoody Place in Atlanta on Christmas Day. Over 200 members of the Jewish community in Metro Atlanta participated in the 2023 Pinch Hitter program.

Stan Sloan leads a game of hangman at Berman Commons in Dunwoody on Christmas Day. The assisted-living facility was one of seven medical centers and senior living communities served by the 2023 Pinch Hitter program.

B’rith, co-founded the Pinch Hitter program in 1980.

“Anything we can do to help out in the community,” Jackson said. “Nobody should have to work on Christmas Day, I mean my goodness.”

He said the program began with 32 volunteers at Children’s Scottish Rite Hospital.

Since Christmas Day fell on Shabbat in 1981, the program went on a hiatus.

Jackson said the program started to volunteer time on Fridays for years when the two holidays conflict.

Jackson served as chairman of the program for over a decade and led the effort to expand the its reach.

wonderful couple.”

Harry Lutz traveled to every location to ensure things were running smoothly on Christmas Day. After serving as chairman for two years in the mid-1990s, Lutz said he returned to lead the program, which was struggling at the time. He said he hopes to train someone to fill his role as chairman of the program.

Amy and Ian Hurewitz, Lutz’s daughter and grandson, tagged along with him and took photos of volunteers at each location.

Lutz said spending time with his daughter and grandson made the day especially memorable.

PHOTOS BY AMY HUREWITZ/PROVIDED

President George H.W. Bush awarded the Pinch Hitter program with the 335th Presidential Point of Light Service Award on Christmas Day in 1990. During his administration, President Bush recognized more than 1,000 volunteers as “points of light.”

The Points of Light Foundation was created as a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization in 1991. It will hold the Points of Light Conference June 11-14 in Houston.

Harry Lutz has served as chairman of the Pinch Hitter program since 2000.

“Harry is just unbelievable,” Jackson said. “Rosanne [Lutz] does a tremendous amount of work as well, they’re a

North Metro Atlanta apartments for new college graduates cost big

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com METRO ATLANTA — If you’re a fresh college graduate, finding an affordable apartment in north Metro Atlanta might just feel like a wild goose chase.

Let’s say you just got a job in Alpharetta. It’s your first professional job, and you’re excited. You ideally want to live there for a quick commute because you’ve heard about the traffic in and around Atlanta — it could take 45 minutes just to drive a dozen miles.

So, you begin looking for onebedrooms in Alpharetta, because you’re an adult and you’re tired of living in college housing where roommates have too many people over, live in a pigsty and don’t pay their rent on time.

But, after searching, you start sweating. The price ranges are a little too high for your new salary — way better

than working retail but not really good enough to afford living on your own in Alpharetta.

A search on Apartments.com yields a one-bedroom in Alpharetta for $1,300, but you realize it’s for people ages 55 and over. Okay, okay, there’s another with no age requirement for the same price, but you keep looking anyway — you probably need something less than $1,100.

Like other Georgians under 25 years old, you make around $40,000 a year in your entry level job, and that’s about $20,000 less than the median income of residents of Alpharetta, a city that was ranked the most expensive city to live in Georgia, according to Zumper’s “Atlanta Metro Report.”

You’re not the only one facing this conundrum — Metro Atlanta’s 20-34 age cohort by population ranks seventh in the nation, according to the Atlanta

Regional Commission.

Cities in a 10-mile radius are a little cheaper — still not within a realistic price range, but eating ramen every day is worth the peace to you, and your parents don’t mind cosigning for a place that requires you to make triple the cost of rent a month.

There’s a “newly renovated” onebedroom in Roswell for just over $1,200.

The area also doesn’t look all that great, after getting a Google Street View, but you have a lot of trust in the world, and you read the reviews anyway. They’re mixed — “awesome” customer service, but some of the units are infested with bugs and mice, with complimentary pictures.

Next.

You search Sandy Springs, a little bit farther down the road but not bad. You find a one-bedroom for the same price as the one in Roswell, and you’re jazzed

about the in-unit washer and dryer.

Again, more positive reviews, but the black mold catches your eye.

A last ditch effort is North Fulton is Johns Creek, but the cheapest onebedroom is $1,400 — impossible to afford even with a ramen diet, your older brother tells you.

You conclude you need a roommate or two, because you have to consider your other expenses – power, internet, water, health insurance, gas and groceries, and you want to live in a place where you won’t regret a 12-month lease. Having a life would be nice, too — maybe you want to go see a movie or a performance every now and then.

So, the roommate search is on with a new Roomies account and memberships to six different Metro Atlanta housing Facebook groups, to find a suitable stranger to live with amid all the scammers.

6 | January 11, 2024 | Sandy Springs Crier | AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs

January book events start year with a bang

Festival: Continued from Page 1 and the Civil Rights Movement.

There will be two screenings of the movie in the Studio Theatre at 1:15 p.m. and 2:45 p.m.

The film follows two friends in middle school who travel through time, meeting King at several points during his life. It was nominated for an Emmy Award for Outstanding Animated Program in 1999.

The film contains references to historical events that might require explanations for younger audiences.

While there are set times for the film’s showings, the children’s activities are available throughout the event.

The City Bar will offer a kid-friendly menu with chicken tenders, macaroni and cheese and an assortment of snacks and beverages.

COMMUNITY

By KATHY DES JARDINS CIOFFI newsroom@appenmedia.com

CITY OF SANDY SPRINGS/PROVIDED

The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Art and Film Celebration kicks off at 1 p.m. Jan. 15 at the Studio Theatre in the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center. The family-friendly event includes two screenings of the Emmynominated film, “My Friend, Martin.”

PALS

After the book-buying bustle of the holidays, the number of author events in January may seem small, but some are certainly mighty.

Karen White, Milton’s own New York Times bestseller, will be in conversation with suspense author Deborah Goodrich Royce Jan. 12 at Poe & Company Bookstore.

Then, Brad Taylor, author of the blockbuster Pike Logan series, will appear at the Milton Library Jan. 27. Hosted by A Novel Idea, Taylor will be discussing and signing his latest military thriller, “Dead Man’s Hand,” available that day from Bookmiser.

A 21-year veteran of the U.S. Army Infantry and Special Forces, including eight years with Delta Force, Taylor serves as a security consultant on asymmetric threats for various agencies when he isn’t writing.

When he is, he’s penning intricate storylines packed with authenticity for readers

PROVIDED

New York Times bestselling author Brad Taylor will speak at the Milton Library Jan. 27. who “love the ticking-clock action,” according to Kirkus Reviews. And, with over 3 million books in print, Taylor’s fast-paced, informed approach is a proven winner.

To submit an author event for the upcoming month, email Kathy Des Jardins Cioffi at kathydesjardins3@gmail.com by the 15th.

PERIMETER ADULT LEARNING & SERVICES

WINTER 2024 January 8th – March 4th (8 Weeks)

(No Class January 15th) Dunwoody Baptist Church 1445 Mt. Vernon Rd., Dunwoody, GA 30338.

Registration will be available on the PALS website: www.palsonline.info The class line up is as follows: MONDAYS: From 10:00 am - 11:00 am Sociology of Religion II with Kemal Budak -- The sociology of religion examines the role religion plays in society. In this course, which will be the follow up of the Sociology of Religion I course, we will examine the following topics: Religious Beliefs and Practices, Secularization, Religious Institutions, Religious Identity, Religion and Social Change, Religion and Social Inequality, Globalization and Religion, Religious Fundamentalism, Religion and Morality and Religious Conversion.

From 10:00 am - 11:00 am The History of Rock & Roll with Tom Dell – This class will continue our trip back to the 60’s and look and listen to the Girl Groups that made so many hits, look at Phil Spector’s contributions and travails, and take a listen to Booker T and The MGs, Otis Redding and other STAX artists. Atlantic Label had artists Aretha Franklin and Wilson Pickett while Berry Gordy began Motown Records with a lot of help from Jackie Wilson and William (Smokey) Robinson. We will also delve into the bands that backed up so many of the hits of the era and take a look at Folk-Rock groups.

From 11:30 am - 1:45 pm Great Legal Decisions with Mah Jongg – Bring your own Mah Jongg card and come play. There is no instructor for the session - just fun and self-evaluation.

From 11:30 am - 12:30 pm A History of The Broadway Musical with Betsy Jones – The Broadway Musical is a quintessentially American art form. This class will explore a number of our favorite musicals focusing on a different topic each week including Great Musical Composing Teams, “Those Dancing Feet,” iconic Broadways stars, the Great Broadway Theaters ( The Architecture, Design and Most Famous performances), the British Invasion (From West End to Broadway), Musical Theatre as a Vehicle for Social change, The Mega Musical (where the staging and effects are as important as the plot, characters or score) and Juke Box Musicals (shows where the songs were already famous so hey...let’s write a script!).

Lectures will be interspersed with video clips of performances that illustrate the weekly topic leaving ample time for everyone to share favorite memories.

From 11:30 am - 12:30 pm What’s With All the Noise? with Shai Robkin – In their bestselling books “Predictably Irrational, “Thinking Fast and Slow,” and “Nudge,” Dan Ariely, Daniel Kahneman, and Cass Sunstein (with co-author Richard Thaler), respectively, explore how cognitive biases lead individuals to make decisions that defy what we might call “rational thinking.” In their 2021 book “Noise,” Kahneman and Sunstein partner with Olivier Sibony to focus on the wide variabilities in judgments, by both individuals and organizations, when addressing the exact same problem.

Seemingly random and unfair decisions resulting from “noise” have dramatic implications for society, including the erosion of trust we have in one another.

Book happenings.

Thursdays, Jan. 4-25, Organizing Your Novel Workshop. Writer and teacher Brandi Bradley will lead a four-week course for writers. 6 p.m. each Thursday in January. $95. Bookmiser, 3822 Roswell Road, Marietta. 770-5095611. bookmiser.net Friday, Jan. 12, Karen White, Debra Goodrich Royce. The authors will discuss Royce’s latest release, “Reef Road.” 5 p.m. Free. Poe & Company Bookstore, 1890 Heritage Walk, Suite P101, Milton. 770-797-5566. Poeandcompanybookstore.com Saturday, Jan. 13, Paige Watts. The seasoned travel writer will sign her new book, “What’s With Atlanta: The Quirks, Personality, and Charm of the ATL.” Noon. Free. Read It Again Bookstore, 3630 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 314, Suwanee. 770-232-9331. read-it-again.com Tuesday, Jan. 16, Robert Gwaltney, Andrew Diaz Winkelmann and DL Mitchell. A Novel Idea will host Gwaltney, the 2023 Georgia Author of the Year for First Novel, along with other new authors Winkelmann and Mitchell. Mitchell, a practicing small animal veterinarian, will be launching her debut title that evening. 7 p.m.

Free. Brimstone Restaurant & Tavern, 10595 Old Alabama Road, Alpharetta.

770-509-5611. bookmiser.net/bookevents.html Saturday, Jan. 20, Lauren Walier.

“The Dancing Swan,” based on the

author’s real-life story as a ballroom champion with cerebral palsy, will be the focus of a reading and CP fundraiser. 2 p.m. Free. Poe & Company Bookstore, 1890 Heritage Walk, Suite P101, Milton. 770-797-5566. Poeandcompanybookstore.com Saturday, Jan. 20, Dr. Nicole B. Hight. The local author and pediatrician will be signing her new release, “You Are Made for This!” During a discussion with parents, she’ll explore whether a chapter a day can keep the doctor away and how a love of reading in early childhood may reduce adolescent stress and boost brain and mental health in teens. 3 p.m. Free. Johns Creek Books, 6000 Medlock Bridge Road, 770-696-9999. johnscreekbooks.com Saturday, Jan. 27, Dorothy Padgett.

Atlanta Authors presents Padgett discussing her nonfiction work, “Jimmy Carter: Elected President with Pocket Change & Peanuts,” with a foreword by Carter. Free, in person or online. 2 p.m.

Roswell Library, 115 Norcross St. 404612-9700. forl.net/atlanta-authors Saturday, Jan. 27, Brad Taylor. The New York Times bestselling author of 17 titles will celebrate the release of “Dead Man’s Hand,” the 18th installment in his Pike Logan Series.

A Novel Idea will host Taylor, who will sign books sold by Bookmiser. 4 p.m.

Free. Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road. 770-509-5611. bookmiser.net/ book-events.html

COMMUNITY

AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs | Sandy Springs Crier | January 11, 2024 | 7

Public libraries kick off 2024 with lineups of winter events

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

Visit each county library system’s website for more information.

METRO ATLANTA — From crocheting to yoga to teen book clubs, Metro Atlanta libraries are offering a slew of programs and resources for patrons of all ages this winter.

Here is a brief look at some offerings.

Fulton County The Milton Library, 855 Mayfield Road, offers a community crochet circle on Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The hobby group is open to adults of all crochet skill levels and other fiber arts.

Some North Fulton branches are also reserving time slots where children can read to registered therapy dogs.

The Roswell Library will host “Read to Archie” at 4 p.m. Jan. 8 and 29 at 115 Norcross St. The Milton Library invites children to read to Cinnamon at 3 p.m. Jan. 9, Feb. 13, March 12, April 9 and May 14 as part of its “Books with Pups” series.

The Milton branch also offers a monthly program for children 8 years and older to play Pokémon and Magic the Gathering. All skill levels are welcome.

The gaming event is held from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on the first and last Friday of each month.

Beginning Jan. 5, Northeast Spruill Oaks Library will host yoga every Friday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 9560 Spruill Road in Johns Creek.

The Ocee Library in Johns Creek is also hosting “Energy Yoga” on Wednesdays starting Jan. 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 5090 Abbotts Bridge Road.

The Sandy Springs Library is scheduling “Yoga with Marianne” on Saturdays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at 395 Mount Vernon Highway.

Classes run from Jan. 6 through Jan. 27.

DeKalb County The DeKalb County Public

DeKalb: dekalblibrary.org Fulton: fulcolibrary.org Forsyth: forsythpl.org

ILLUSTRATION BY DIONNA WILLIAMS/APPEN MEDIA

DeKalb, Forsyth and Fulton County libraries are hosting a series of events for all ages this winter. Patrons can read to dogs, relax with yoga, start a book club and learn coding languages.

Library system is offering four book group takeout kits to help patrons improve or start their own book club.

Each kit includes 10 to 12 copies of a book from the kit’s catalog and a guide on how to run a book discussion, a biography of the author, a synopsis of the reading material and discussion questions.

The library system offers four takeout kits based on reading level: “Eager Readers” for beginners, “Book Buddies Takeout” for children who are new to chapter books, “BeTWEEN the Lines” for tweens and “Book Group Takeout” for adults.

Book group takeout kits can be checked out for eight weeks, and renewals are not allowed. Patrons may check out two kits at once.

The DeKalb County Public Library also offers FLIP kits, which develop new readers’ comprehension and skills through family activities at home. FLIP kits include a book, an activity guide, materials and supplies.

Beyond its book offerings, the DeKalb library system also provides

exclusive resources for teenagers.

The Hairston Crossing Library offers teen and tween self-care kits every Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 4911 Redan Road in Stone Mountain.

The kits include journaling and mindfulness supplies for patrons between 12 and 18 years old.

Teen artists and writers can also submit their work to be featured in the DeKalb County Public Library’s quarterly zine, “Between the Stacks.”

Forsyth County Throughout January, the Forsyth County Public Library is offering basic Python coding for students in the sixth through eighth grades at the Cumming Library at 585 Dahlonega St. The course will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturdays and will focus on basic coding and theory.

The four -week program begins Jan. 6 and concludes Jan. 27.

Registration is required, and participants are encouraged to attend all sessions.

St. James UMC schedules annual MLK Day service ALPHARETTA, Ga. — St. James United Methodist Church in Alpharetta will host its annual Martin Luther King Jr. community service and unity walk at 10 a.m. Jan. 15.

The service will feature Fulton County Probate Court Chief Judge

Kenya Johnson, who will speak on the theme “Leaving Your Legacy” inspired by Proverbs 13:22.

Following the service, guests are invited to join in a unity walk from the church at 3000 Webb Bridge Road to Alpharetta City Center.

Church staff said the annual fellowship event brings the community together to celebrate the principles of equality, justice and service that King represented.

— Shelby Israel

Post Road Library at 5010 Post Road will host a “Masterminds Lego Lounge” at 4 p.m. on Fridays starting Jan. 12, with recurring dates through April.

Students in kindergarten through fifth grade can practice building or complete new challenges in each program. Finished Lego creations are displayed on top of the library’s hold shelves.

Registration is not required, but space is limited.

The Cumming Library will also host a monthly writers club where teenagers can meet others who love to write; learn tips and strategies; practice with prompts and games; and share their writing to receive constructive feedback.

The club will meet at 6:30 p.m.

Jan. 9, Feb. 13 and March 12.

Office Space for Lease Close to Downtown Alpharetta Small private office space (unfurnished) available in Appen Media Office close to Downtown Alpharetta (319 North Main Street, Alpharetta). All utilities included, Internet included (within reason), 24/7 access. Space is upstairs in area of Appen Newsroom. Private, quiet, and open. Approximately 200 sq. ft. (14’ x 14’). $/600 per month, first/ last/security deposit required as well as solid reliable references.

Space would be perfect for a bookkeeper or a self-employed person.

Contact via text or email: Ray Appen at 770-527-4042 or RayAppen@Gmail.com

›

8 | January 11, 2024 | Sandy Springs Crier | AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs

Calendar

JAN.11 — JAN. 21

POP-UP PERFORMANCE SERIES: LAYLA MUSSELWHITE

What: Layla Musselwhite, a New Orleans-based singer-songwriter and slide guitarist, will perform. Ticket cost includes hors d’oeuvres and beverages.

When: Thursday, Jan. 11, 7 p.m.

Where: Mimosa Hall, 127 Bulloch Avenue, Roswell Cost: $35 More: roswellartsfund.org/popup

TONY THOMAS: ‘SCENES FROM MY TRAVELS’

What: See original drawings and paintings by local artist Tony Thomas, including of the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls, Multnomah Falls and Devils Tower National Monument.

When: Until Jan. 12, business hours Where: Community Gallery at City Hall, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta More info: alpharetta.ga.us

MLK JR. ART & FILM CELEBRATION

What: This free, family-friendly event will feature interactive art projects and a film designed to celebrate, educate, and share the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. When: Monday, Jan. 15, 1 p.m.

Where: Studio Theatre, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs More info: sandyspringsga.gov/ mlk

MARIO THE MAKER MAGICIAN

What: Mario “the Maker Magician” Marchese, who infuses DIY electronics and robotics into his work, will perform. He has appeared on “Sesame Street,” NBC’s “Universal Kids,” HGTV and on David Blaine’s 2018 North American tour.

When: Saturday, Jan. 13, 11 a.m.

Where: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest Street, Roswell Cost: $12 More info: roswell365.com

A NIGHT WITH DADS 2: THE DADDENING

What: Comedians from Dad’s Garage, an improv comedy theater, will perform.

When: Saturday, Jan. 13, 7:30 p.m.

Where: Stage Door Theatre, 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody Cost: $15 to $28 More info: stagedoortheatrega.org

MLK JR. DAY OF SERVICE

What: Join Dunwoody on this eighth annual day of service with projects across the city.

When: Monday, Jan. 15, all day Where: Locations across Dunwoody More info: dunwoodyga.gov

MLK JR. ART & FILM CELEBRATION

What: This free, family-friendly event will feature interactive art projects and a film designed to celebrate, educate, and share the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. When: Monday, Jan. 15, 1 p.m.

Where: Studio Theatre, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs More info: sandyspringsga.gov/mlk

JESSE COOK

What: An accomplished guitarist and prolific filmmaker, Jesse Cook composed his first album “Tempest” more than 25 years ago, playing all the instruments. His compositional style mixes flamenco with everything from classical and jazz to zydeco, blues and Brazilian samba.

When: Friday, Jan. 19, 8 p.m.

Where: Byers Theatre, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs Cost: Tickets starting at $47.10

FEATURE YOUR EVENT ONLINE AND IN PRINT! It’s even easier now than ever to promote your event to hundreds of thousands of people, whether online, through our newsletters or in the Crier and Herald newspapers.

More info: sandyspringsga.gov

TALKING TECH WITH BILL NUSSEY

What: Bill Nussey, partner at Tech Square Ventures and Engage and author of “Freeing Energy,” will speak about clean energy and the history of computers in the Computer Museum of America’s “Talking Tech” speaker series.

When: Saturday, Jan. 20, 2-3 p.m.

Where: Computer Museum of America, 5000 Commerce Parkway, Roswell Cost: $10 to $15, free for museum members More info: computermuseumofamerica.org

PORTRAIT SOCIETY OF ATLANTA EXHIBITION

What: The Portrait Society of Atlanta presents its annual member exhibition.

When: Until Jan. 20, business hours To promote your event, follow these easy steps:

1.

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Where: Alpharetta Arts Center, 238 Canton Street, Alpharetta More info: alpharetta.ga.us

LYRICS AND LAUGHS

What: Join this comedy show, featuring award-winning comedian Rita Brent as the co-host, along with Griff from the “Get Up! Morning with Erica Campbell” morning show. There will be performances by comedian Rodney Perry, seen in “Coming 2 America” and Tyler Perry’s “Madea’s Big Happy Family,” comedian Cocoa Brown from BET’s “Comic View,” as well as musical guests.

When: Sunday, Jan. 21, 6 p.m.

Where: Byers Theatre, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs Cost: Tickets starting at $65 More info: sandyspringsga.gov

Visit AppenMedia.com/Calendar Provide the details for your event including title, description, location and date Click the red button that reads “Create event” That’s it! Submissions are free, though there are paid opportunities to promote your event in print and online.

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10 | January 11, 2024 | Sandy Springs Crier | AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs

OPINION

Casting long shadows over the generations One of the favorite columns that I have written was about H.V. Appen, my grandfather. I wrote it in 2005. Without getting into the column too much, what instigated my writing it was a call I got from RAY APPEN a stranger one day Publisher Emeritus who – on a chance – saw my name in the phone book (they used to publish phone directories prior to cell phones – remember?) and called me to see if I possibly could be related to H.V. Appen. I said yes, and he told me he wanted to thank me for the kindness that my grandfather had shown him just after the end of WW II – around 1946 or 47 – in Poland. Grandfather was there, serving as an engineer as part of the Marshall Plan reconstruction effort. So, the person who called me was thanking me for something that H.V. had done to help him almost 75 years ago.

Now, speed up to 2023, another 30 years or so after I got that call. My son Hans (named after H.V.) forwarded to me a short note from a reader who lives in Roswell: “Your grandfather, H.V. Appen, and

my grandfather, Sam, worked together on Wolf Creek Dam in Jamestown, KY, and remained lifelong friends through their retirement. I do recall him mentioning Mr. Appen and he wrote about him in his memoir, that my mom keeps meaning to publish.”

Wolf Creek Dam was built between 1941 and 1950. Wow. I guess I should stop being surprised when these reminders and anecdotes keep popping up about my grandfather – other people’s memories about a time and a man from so many years ago. I know that after I am gone, outside of my children and grandchildren, no one is going to remember me, much less talk about me like this.

They just aren’t. And I am OK with that, I guess. But what is it about a person – what characteristics about a person is it that so endears one to others?

Loyalty comes to my mind – and integrity. If H.V. was your friend, you knew that he would be there for you, no matter what. If you needed help, he would help you if he could. He was a man of principle, and you knew that his beliefs and values were not for sale – ever – and that they would not change when circumstance changed; they were

predictable, and they were constant. To him, there was “right” and there was “wrong” and not much – if anything – in between. So, if you were wrong, he would call you on it – no matter who you were. If you were right, you knew you could count on him to have your back.

If you pulled your weight, you had his support. If you didn’t, there would be hell to pay. He took charge and he led. If he had been in a war – which he wasn’t – he would be the guy walking point on patrol or the one who volunteered for a particularly dangerous mission because he knew no one else would. But heaven help you if he was on point and you didn’t hold up your end.

He was generous. After the war, he sent money to support his brother and family living in Chile. When his brother started a shipping company (cargo ships, port services) he offered H.V. half ownership to thank him. H.V. turned it down. When he gave, there were no strings attached. He gave because it was the right thing to do – and only for that reason. Even today, after that shipping company turned into a worldwide conglomerate with over 100 ships and offices all around the world, I doubt he would have given a second thought to have turned down

GET OUTSIDE, GEORGIA!

Getting ready to head into the woods Into the woods with the threat of rain “So what do we do if it rains?”

We are standing in the driveway, and we’re trying to fit 97 cubic yards of camping technology into 2.5 cubic yards STEVE HUDSON Columnist of available cargo space. Isn’t that what the TV ads call it? “Available cargo space”?

Uh huh. That’s basically a euphemism for oddly shaped pieces of enclosed air. The secret to packing for a wilderness expedition, I am learning, is pretty much the same as the secret to life. It’s all about mastering the art of fitting things in.

We’re getting better at this packingfor-camping thing too. At this point we are, after all, veterans of two (count ‘em, two) successful live-in-the-tent-for-a fewdays excursions, which is to say that we didn’t get eaten by bears.

We ate well, though. I told you about the pan-fried potatoes and onions, and she says that she has elevated things

substantially for this, our next foray into the wild. On the menu, if I am reading the ice chest right, are shrimp scampi and marinated filet mignon and, for breakfast, homemade sausage gravy over skillet-fried biscuits (and of course more potatoes and onions).

Yes, and for sure: If you think it through even a little bit, life on the frontier can be cozy indeed.

First, though, I’ve got to get this cooler into the car. It’s like a giant 3-D Tetris game, and at stake is no less than some really fine campsite cuisine.

“What if we leave that extra tarp at home?” she asks. “Would that help?”

Well, it might. A little. But not enough. Besides, there remains that weather report – and that question, which she asks again, gently.

“What will we do if it rains?”

For seasoned campers, rain is just one of those things you have to deal with, like recalcitrant air mattresses or the occasional yellow jacket. But we are not yet fully seasoned in this brave new living-in-the-outdoors world.

Enthusiastic? Yes! But seasoned? Only lightly, with the merest pinch of experience and outdoor

wisdom. It’ll come, of that I’m certain. It’s coming as we speak. But it ain’t here yet, and so the forecast is…concerning…

It’s a fair question, and of course there are only two possible answers: stay dry or get wet.

The makers of our tent have assured us that the former will be the case.

“Keeps you dry in floods and deluges, even those of Biblical proportions!” the package proclaimed, or words to that effect, and if you can’t believe the package then can there any truth at all?

So we should feel secure, no matter what, but there’s that matter of meteorology.

“Expect rain,” the TV tells us again.

“Your area may experience showers...”

Eventually, defying the laws of physics only a little bit, I get everything into the car. Thirty minutes later we’re headed north, and by mid-afternoon we arrive at our chosen place in the untamed wilderness, Happy Holiday Campground in Cherokee, N.C. Our hosts are welcoming and encouraging as they lead us to our site, which is snuggled close against Soco Creek, whose

See HUDSON, Page 12

interest in the company.

It puzzles me, though, why people still remember him. These individual values that he lived by are not so uncommon. Perhaps it is the combination of so many values and priorities all wrapped into one person that makes the difference. I have only known a few people like him. Builder Tom Cousins comes to mind. So does Christina’s and my best friend, Dr. Ivan Backerman, who recently died.

Now that I think about it, it is also possible that the reason they are remembered is because they made such an impact on so many people’s lives.

They changed other people’s lives for the better by helping them help themselves and by setting an example of a life well-lived. They played hard; they worked hard; they achieved, and they earned what they got. And they expected those around them to do the same. They made the world a better place than how they found it, and they improved the lives of those around them along the way.

Perhaps the reason that their shadow still lingers is because it is not actually their shadow that we see, but the shadows of the people whose lives they changed and improved.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Rushing around really hit home To the editor, I would just like to thank Ray Appen for his recent article "What's the Rush?" I read his articles all the time, especially when he was doing "The Appalachian Trail." The one this week was so meaningful to me because we are in the midst of downsizing – home, stuff, so many memories! Your article made me realize that with all my rushing around I was not focusing on enjoying these last few months of our beautiful home that we have loved for many years. So, thank you for your wisdom to relish every moment we are given each day. And to let that darn car push in ahead of me!

Joy Ross Alpharetta

Appen Media aims to present a variety of views in its opinion pages. Send your thoughts, questions and letters to newsroom@appenmedia.com.

AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs | Sandy Springs Crier | January 11, 2024 | 11 Dunwoody Crier 1/11/24 Crossword PuzzleJunction.com

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See solution Page 14

CADILLAC JACK MY SECOND ACT New Show, Same Ride.

Solution on next page

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12 | January 11, 2024 | Sandy Springs Crier | AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs

PAST TENSE

OPINION

Franklin Garrett’s love of history, railroads, Atlanta – Part II This article is part 2 of the story of Franklin Garrett, who was named Atlanta’s official historian in 1974.

In the 1980s, the Atlanta History Center held several VALERIE BIGGERSTAFF events called “Stump Franklin Garrett,” Columnist where history fans asked questions either to learn more from Garrett or find gaps in his Atlanta history knowledge. Marc Hayes recalls hearing Garrett speak at the AHC, at a book signing, and hearing his Stump Garrett program on WSB radio. Hayes recalls that Garrett often knew the answer to who lived at a certain address in a particular year in Atlanta.

Hayes and a friend phoned Garrett in the mid-1970s to talk about history, back when telephone numbers were readily available in a paper phone book.

They called from a speaker phone, which Garrett was not pleased with, and his response to one of the questions was the answer was in his book “Atlanta and Environs Volume 2.”

At a 1983 Stump Franklin Garrett

night at AHC, almost every seat in McElreath Hall was filled. The first question asked was, “Did William Tecumseh Sherman ever sleep in the Tullie Smith House?” Garrett proclaimed that to be false, adding that Sherman did stay in a home that is now the clubhouse at Peachtree Golf Club. (Atlanta Constitution, Feb.24, 1983, “Garrett takes the stump in new Battle of Atlanta”) There are Stump Franklin Garrett videos available on YouTube. In a 1988 video, an audience member asks what the historical connection is between Ivy Street, Cain Street and Harris Street in downtown Atlanta. Garrett quickly says only Ivy and Cain are connected, explaining that Ivy was the man who built the first home in what is now downtown Atlanta and Cain was his son-in-law. Harris Street was named for Atlanta’s first city clerk.

On the same evening, he was asked the family name of three women for which Wieuca Road is named. He could not recall their last name but knew that their first names were Wilma, Eugenia and Catherine. The first two letters of each name together form Wieuca. Then, he added the fact that Wieuca Road was previously known as Stephens Mill Road.

When the Atlanta Railroad line from

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DUNWOODY PRESERVATION TRUST ARCHIVES

Franklin Garrett shared his wisdom with the Sandy Springs Historic Research Committee and Dunwoody Oral History Committee in 1994.

Atlanta to Augusta was in its final days in 1983, the engine was named in honor of Franklin Garrett. People had the opportunity to ride the train one last time, and the train enthusiasts on board with Garrett heard him talk about trains and sing about trains.

The engineer was Bill Mauldin, and Garrett spent time riding aboard the engine and even operated the engine with Mauldin’s guidance. Garrett told passengers he first rode that train over 60 years earlier. Then he sang two old train

Hudson: Continued from Page 10 clear waters dance and sing as they splash over rocks and riffle through runs and just generally provide the perfect counterpoint to all that is good and true.

Our tent goes up easily. The cooking tent does, too. I even manage to assemble our brand-new “Camp Kitchen, Some Assembly Required” with no serious bodily injury and only one or maybe two exclamatory words.

By golly, the basics are all in place.

This is starting to look pretty good.

“You know,” she says, “I think we need a few things. Could you run get them while I finish up the tent?”

Surveying the campsite one more time, and nodding to myself that this is going just fine, I climb into the car and drive into town. I return after an hour or so. I park and get out and turn toward our campsite – and then I stop in my tracks, speechless.

There is the tent, still orange and white but no longer just a box made from utilitarian outdoor-grade nylon. Instead, it has been transformed into an exotic

songs, “Casey Jones” and “The Wreck of the Old 97.” Casey Jones began with, “Come all you rounders, if you wanna hear, the story about a brave engineer.

Casey Jones was the roller’s name, on a 6-8-wheeler course he won his fame.”

Garrett lamented how railroad travel had suffered with the speed of airline travel.

“It is a bit frustrating to me and somewhat ironic that a city that was born of trains and railroads has only one daily passenger train now,” he told the other passengers. He considered train travel, with the ability to move around, a dining car and a bar car, to be superior to airplane travel. He also preferred how trains could take one right into the middle of a town. (Atlanta History Center, audio recording, 1983) Franklin Garrett, age 93, died in March of 2000 and is buried at Oakland Cemetery. His Atlanta Constitution obituary summed up a life spent learning and loving Atlanta history. “Franklin Miller Garrett was not born in Atlanta, but he spent a lifetime making up for that inconvenient fact.”

Award-winning author Valerie Biggerstaff is a longtime columnist for Appen Media and the Dunwoody Crier. She lives in Atlanta. You can email Valerie at pasttensega@gmail.com or visit her website at pasttensega.com. palace in the woods, with tiny lights strung inside and woven multicolored rugs on the floor. The air mattress is inflated and all made up, with pillows and a comforter and even two end tables fashioned from the plastic tubs.

There’s a glass of wine on the picnic table, which is set with tablecloth and fancy plates, and a fire is laid in the fire ring.

“I told you I was a nest builder,” she says.

Later, after a little fishing and some supper (the shrimp scampi was delicious, possibly the best she has ever made) we sit by the fire and talk in that easy, effortless way. We talk of life…and of loving life…and of life lived in love.

About ten o’clock, just as predicted, it starts to rain. At first it’s just a mist, just enough to make a tiny pitter-pat against the rain fly of the tent. Then it picks up.

And then it pours sure enough.

The deluge continues all night – all night long – but we are dry, and warm, and safe, safer than ever before.

After a while I drift off to sleep, wrapped in the music of that rain on the tent, and I rest in the joy of the unexpected fulfillment of dreams I didn’t even know I had.

OPINION

GARDEN BUZZ

AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs | Sandy Springs Crier | January 11, 2024 | 13

Seeking input from our valued Garden Buzz readers Greetings, gardening enthusiasts!

So much has happened since Appen Media initiated the Garden Buzz column in mid-January 2023!

To date, 53 weekly columns have been written by 22 guest columnists, including Master Gardeners and UGA Extension Fulton County staff.

It's time for us to turn the spotlight on you, our beloved readers LEE TANENBAUM Guest Columnist of the Garden Buzz columns. We truly appreciate your continued support and engagement with our content, and we value your opinion greatly. Today, we are reaching out to gather your feedback and insights to further enhance the value and benefit of our columns.

Please take a few minutes to share your input by answering the questions online at https:// forms.gle/z1kMWx8qojHipEkZ6 or emailing northfultonmastergardeners@gmail.com. We are excited to hear from you and look forward to implementing your suggestions to make the Garden Buzz columns even better!

1. How often do you read the Garden Buzz columns?

How do you access the columns?

We would love to know how frequently you engage with our columns as well as how you access the columns. Your response will help us gauge the readership and adapt our content accordingly.

2. Have you found the Garden Buzz columns to be engaging and enjoyable to read? Have the Garden Buzz columns provided you with valuable information and insights for your own gardening endeavors?

Your input regarding the usefulness of the content is invaluable to us. Understanding how the columns have impacted your gardening journey will guide us in delivering more relevant and beneficial articles.

3. Do you feel that the Garden Buzz columns provide practical and applicable advice that is relevant to your specific gardening needs? Have you successfully implemented any of the tips or suggestions from the Garden Buzz columns in your garden?

We are eager to learn about your experiences in implementing the advice we provide. Your success stories will inspire other readers and motivate us to continue sharing practical and actionable tips.

4. Have you noticed any improvements or positive

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changes in your garden as a result of implementing the suggestions from the Garden Buzz columns?

We are curious to know if our columns have shaped your gardening perspective or if they have encouraged you to explore new ideas and techniques. Your insights will help us measure the impact of our content on our readers.

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8. Do you feel that the Garden Buzz columns cover a wide range of gardening topics, catering to different levels of gardening expertise?

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Your perspective on the variety of topics covered and the inclusivity of expertise levels addressed will guide us in maintaining a balanced and inclusive approach.

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10. Overall, how would you rate the value and benefit you derive from reading the Garden Buzz columns on

Learn more about the North Fulton Master Gardeners • linktr.ee/NFMG • https://nfmg.net/becomeMG.html • facebook.com/northfultonmastergardeners • twitter.com/NFMGardeners • youtube.com/northfultonmastergardeners • instagram.com/northfultonmastergardeners • https://nextdoor.com/pages/north-fulton master-gardeners-inc-princeton-me/

About the author This week’s “Garden Buzz” guest columnist is Lee Tanenbaum, a master gardener since 2011. Lee has served as NFMG’s Communications Co-Chair for Publicity and Marketing as well as the Interim Chair of the NFMG Gardening Education Team. Lee is a retired speech-language pathologist and public health professional, a mother of three, and a grandmother of nine. Lee loves to garden and travel, especially with her grandchildren.

a scale of 1 to 10?

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Your feedback will shape the future of the Garden Buzz columns. We are dedicated to creating content that adds value to your gardening endeavors and enriches your connection with nature. Your thoughts, insights and suggestions will guide us in tailoring our articles to meet your needs and preferences.

Happy Gardening!

North Fulton Master Gardeners, Inc. is a Georgia nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose purpose is to educate its members and the public in the areas of horticulture and ecology in order to promote and foster community enrichment. Master Gardener Volunteers are trained and certified by The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. Learn more about NFMG at nfmg.net. Previous Garden Buzz columns are featured at https://appenmedia. com/opinion/columnists/garden_buzz/.

DEATH NOTICES Adele Gibson, 79, of Roswell, passed away on December 30, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Veronica Hanniford, 88, of Alpharetta, passed away on December 29, 2023. Arrangements

by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

David McClure, 81, of Roswell, passed away on December 24, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

James Gilbert, 51, of Atlanta, passed away on December 28, 2023. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Emma Hopkins, 89, of Sandy Springs, passed away on December 21, 2023.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

John Riski, 75, of Sandy Springs, passed away on December 23, 2023.

Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

14 | January 11, 2024 | Sandy Springs Crier | AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs

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16 | January 11, 2024 | Sandy Springs Crier | AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs

Appen Press Club presents

Listening Tour 2024

Reporter-Led Event Series Seeking Story Feedback and Ideas

Dunwoody – Thurs. Jan. 18, 4–5pm Open to the public and FREE to attend!

YE OLDE DUNWOODY TAVERN OTHER UPCOMING LISTENING TOUR 2024 DATES & LOCATIONS: February 14th

From the Earth Brewing Company (Roswell)

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